Worn over a proper shift, the new corset and sleeve puffs, flounced bum roll and three petticoats, the silhouette came together. Vintage gloves, matching costume pearl bracelets, ribbons and a belt with a gold buckle accessorized the look. And by far, the hairdo, with its towering plumes, flowers, ringlets and bow (all cleverly hiding my current copper ombré style), was my favorite part!

The next step was to find a suitable location for the photo shoot. For sure, I was envisioning a grand (passably-period-looking) staircase and the George Eastman Mansion was so kind to allow us to photograph inside! In fact, the response could not have been more welcoming! Several lovely people spoke with us, asking about the dress, and there were a lot of group pictures. The two ladies that we conversed with in the interactive sitting room (pictured above) were among the most memorable. I highly recommend a visit to the George Eastman Museum if you haven't already!

Finally, I am so grateful to Maria, my sister and photographer, for all of her time and talent! Without her, none of these photo shoots would be possible, and it is her artistic eye - despite the busy Saturday crowd, the rainy and overcast day - that brings my historical dress-up dreams to life. A million thanks, Maria! *All photographs courtesy of Maria M.*

Completed Project Shots

I could have danced all night

I could have danced all night

And still have begged for more

I could have spread my wings

And done a thousand things

I've never done before

I'll never know

What made it so exciting

Why all at once

My heart took flight

I only know when he

Began to dance with me

I could have danced, danced, danced,

All night!

Even though it was raining outside, we decided to take a couple of shots in our favorite location as a just because...and I'm so pleased that we did since the sky blue sari fabric photographed spectacularly!

Lyrics are "I Could Have Danced All Night" from My Fair Lady. An in-depth look at the dress construction (and more info on the hair!) to follow...

Historical Sew Monthly Entry Details

The Challenge:February: Re-Make, Re-Use, Re-Fashion - Sew something that pays homage to the historical idea of re-using, re-making and re-fashioning. Turn one thing into another. Re-fit or re-fashion an old gown into something you would wear again. Re-trim a hat for a new outfit, or re-shape a modern hat to be a historical hat. Re-purpose the fabric from an old garment (your own or a commercial one) into a new garment.

My sky blue 1830s ball gown falls under the "re-purpose" category as the fashion fabric was originally a satin sari. And, as a bonus, the lace frill was "re-used" from a 1970s prom dress!

How historically accurate is it? Material-wise, not very...the burn test (unfortunately) confirmed that the sari is most likely poly, and the lace is only accurate for 1970...however, the overall cut, design and construction methods would be recognizable for the early-1830s. So, 25%?

Hours to complete: Did not keep track, but too many! This dress was very intense on the hand, and every seam needed to be overcast. (Polyester ugh!)

First worn: For pictures!

Total cost: Well, the sari was a generous gift from one of my Aunt's "de-stashing," and most everything else had been bought for other projects or pulled from the stash...so I'd guess a very reasonable $25-$30?

OH how delightful is your ball gown Anneliese! And I LOVE your sleeve supports! I need to make a pair of those for my 30s dress. Your fabric is wonderful and the lace on the bodice is so beautiful! Your hair makes me so happy as well! Isn't the style of the 30s crazy fun!!??Blessings!g

About the Sewphisticate

Needle and thread never far from hand, Anneliese is a seamstress, blogger and 19th-century living history interpreter at the Genesee Country Village & Museum. She pursues her passions for history and its clothing through costume construction and documents this journey, here, at the Young Sewphisticate.

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Why Sew by Hand?

Mission Statement

Perhaps it was the lavish gowns of period dramas, or the treasure trove of costumes at my local community theaters, or even the well-used dress up box of Grandma’s vintage, 1960s housedresses that inspired my love for historical costumes. Whatever the source, I have been captivated ever since by history and its clothing. I only hope that by sharing my passions, I will inspire others to the same appreciation for and interest in exploring clothing as a way of self-expression, social communication and a bridge to interactions of the past.

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Liebster Blog

"Anneliese sews beautiful costumes, and often blogs the whole process from concept sketch through completed ensemble." - Chelsea of a Sartorial Statement

"I get excited every time a new post from Anneliese appears in my inbox. She makes fun theatrical costumes and beautiful clothing from the mid-19th c. (and she has a knack for pattern mixing that can always make me smile!)" - Hannah of Fabric & Fiction

Sisterhood of the World Bloggers

2015 Take Back Halloween! Costume Contest - Winner of Best Queen

"This exquisite costume began life as a discarded 80s prom dress, which Anneliese transformed into queenly attire in a matter of hours the weekend before Halloween...her talent, skill, and eye for balance and detail are superb." - Suzanne Scoggins of Take Back Halloween!

Disclaimer

The pictures and text displayed here are the original creations of The Young Sewphisticate unless directly stated. If there is an image appearing on this blog that belongs to you and do not wish for it to be shared here, please let me know and said image will be removed immediately. Copying without leaving credit or obtaining permission is not appreciated. Thank you!